The Five Shadows, traditionally referring to China's economic influence in various sectors, are increasingly showing signs of weakening. This trend is attributed to several factors, including economic slowdown, trade tensions, and internal challenges within China.

Firstly, China's economic growth has been slowing down, which directly impacts its ability to exert influence. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), China's GDP growth rate has been steadily declining since 2010, from 10.6% in 2010 to an estimated 5.6% in 2023. This slowdown has reduced China's purchasing power and its ability to invest in foreign markets, thereby diminishing its economic leverage.

Secondly, trade tensions with the United States and other major economies have further weakened China's global influence. The trade war initiated by the Trump administration in 2018 has led to significant tariffs on Chinese goods, which have reduced China's export revenue. Additionally, the US has imposed sanctions on Chinese companies, including Huawei, which has disrupted global supply chains and limited China's technological advancements.

Furthermore, internal challenges within China, such as the ongoing zero-COVID policy and the tightening of financial regulations, have contributed to the weakening of the Five Shadows. The strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19 have led to disruptions in the economy and reduced consumer spending. Moreover, the Chinese government's efforts to crack down on financial risks and the real estate sector have caused instability in the market, affecting China's economic stability and global influence.

Data from the World Bank supports these observations. In 2020, China's trade surplus with the United States decreased by 25% compared to 2019, reflecting the impact of trade tensions. Additionally, the World Bank's Global Economic Prospects report for 2023 predicts that China's economic growth will remain below 6% over the next few years, indicating a sustained slowdown.

In conclusion, the Five Shadows are getting weaker due to China's economic slowdown, trade tensions, and internal challenges. These factors have collectively diminished China's economic influence in various sectors, both domestically and globally.